Soil Sample Data Analysis for Apple and Peach Trees

Ella Do, Taylor Gray, Anna Webb

Affiliated with Purdue University West Lafayette

Purpose: 

The purpose of our research is to help the Erie Street Community Garden in Lafayette, IN. We did this by testing pH values, soil moisture, and the biodiversity of bacteria present in soil. By finding specific properties in the soil samples, we can help the garden improve the quality of their soil to then improve the crops in the garden. (Natalie Hoidal and Emily Hansen, 2023) When crops are improved in the garden, more people in the community have access to fresh fruits and vegetables. This makes a huge impact on the lives of everyone in the community, especially ones that rely on the garden for their main source of food.  

Collection Method: 

The soil samples were collected from the Erie Street Public Gardens in early September of 2023. Our group took three samples using a soil corer. Each sample was at least 6 inches deep in the soil. We collected three core samples of apple soil and three core samples of peach tree soil. This soil was stored in airtight plastic bags. The bags were labeled and the soil was stored in a freezer.